Showing papers by "Sunderesh S. Heragu published in 2019"

Operations, Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Abstract: This chapter provides an overview of concepts within the field of closed loop supply chain management. First, using some qualitative frameworks we categorize and characterize the many different closed loop supply chains that are found in practice. Then, we identify key processes and potential bottlenecks that need to be addressed for efficient and effective management. Several modeling approaches are presented, moving from very basic via more advanced to state-of-the-art models that make complex trade-offs and generate more refined insights. The mathematical models presented are meant as simple illustrations of broader concepts. Hence, this chapter is certainly not meant as a comprehensive review of the logistics and operations management literature within the field. Rather, we hope that it can inspire newcomers to the field and specialists who would like to broaden their view.

Operations, Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Definitions and Objectives

Abstract: Operations, logistics and supply chains are catalysts in any modern economy and therefore essential contributors to economic prosperity and societal welfare. This chapter briefly sketches the origins of the field and presents a case study on the importance of a balanced logistical organization from the 17th century, after which formal definitions and objectives are introduced. In addition, we discuss relations with other management areas as well as with other science domains such as law or social and political sciences. Topics and concepts in this chapter are discussed at an elementary level, aiming to provide an introduction to the topical field of operations, logistics, and supply chain management.

Perspectives on Operations Management Developments and Research

Abstract: In this chapter, we discuss major technological and societal developments that determine our lives to a large extent, not in the least the way we organize our resource needs and hence logistics and supply chains After outlining these developments globally, we give some examples of truly disrupting business models that are fundamentally changing our logistics and supply chain operations Next, we look in more depth at the manifestation of the digital revolution in manufacturing and supply chains, as well as the many opportunities that these technologies offer in addressing a number of major societal challenges

Objectives, Educational Developments and Structure of the Book

Abstract: Operations, logistics, and supply chains are essential enablers in a modern economy At the same time, operational, logistics, and supply chain systems are changing fundamentally as a result of technological and societal developments, requiring both researchers as well as skilled professionals to rethink them and to incorporate new functionalities This in turn poses new demands on the way vocational and academic learning, as well as on-the-job training programs for operations, logistics, and supply chain management are designed This book is an attempt to serve students, researchers, and business practitioners by providing information and background material at various levels In this introductory chapter, we discuss the scope and structure of the book Reading this chapter is recommended to determine how to use the book in classroom lectures and seminars, gather background information or for studying specific topics In each chapter, suggestions for further reading and resources for the growth of lateral and critical thinking are provided in order to spread the learning curve—sometimes even slightly beyond the operations, logistics, and supply chain management domain Readers are encouraged to explore the additional material for their own development and to build general learning and research capacities

Outbound Logistics and Distribution Management

Abstract: Distribution and outbound processes are important for many companies because they directly connect them with the customers in a value chain. Market and customer demands relative to quality, speed as well as information and service orientation of logistics processes matter in terms of overall evaluation and satisfaction. At the same time, there are significant cost advantages or disadvantages. In the trade and retail sector, this operational field is especially of high strategic importance and closely connected to e-commerce or multi-channel strategies. It can be said that all the excellence as well as product and service quality built up throughout the value chain can be delivered or destroyed within these last miles of distribution, point of sale, and customer contact. This chapter outlines the core definitions and objectives for outbound logistics and distribution management (Sect. 14.1) before providing an extensive case study for this specific topic (Sect. 14.2). It then provides the operational concepts for distribution in Sect. 14.3 (basic level). In Sect. 14.4 (advanced level), it describes differentiations in terms of multi-echelon inventory models and multi-objective concepts (service levels, cost optimization, batch and emergency deliveries etc.). Current trends and developments such as sharing economy and customer integration concepts as well as cooperation and new technologies are elaborated in Sect. 14.5 (state-of-the-art). Future topics for distribution management research are discussed briefly and further reading materials are listed in Sect. 14.6.